Step-by-Step Guide to the Fire Door Installation Process

Step 1 - Find an Approved Fire Door and Installer

Before making any payments, it’s best to get approval for your application first. However, getting the process started by looking for an approved supplier and installer is necessary and will help speed up the process, as the application process can take a while. This step is crucial as you will have to supply documentation from the installer to the council. A list of documents necessary to provide to the council is in the application form (see above). Some of those documents will include:

• A 3rd Party Certified product certificate for each door.

• A copy of your contractor’s public liability insurance certificate showing a minimum cover of £2m.

• Documentation to confirm that your nominated contractor is a 3rd Party Certified fire door installer.

Three Approved Schemes for Fire Safety Door Installation (Which One Is Right for Me?)

When searching for a fire safety door supplier, the task can be daunting, especially for newcomers. While it may be tempting to choose any installer and door type, it's crucial to ensure the door meets current fire regulations, as the council may require you to replace non-compliant doors. The internet offers numerous door designs from various manufacturers, but not all meet the necessary fire door specifications. To assist you, Westminster Council has approved three schemes that can guide you in finding a qualified installer. Once you've identified a suitable supplier, gather the necessary information to submit with your application to the council.

1. BRE Group – LPCB Scheme (LPS 1271)

   • What It Is: Managed by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), this scheme focuses on the installation of fire and security door sets.

   • Why It Matters: Contractors listed under this scheme are vetted to ensure they install doors that meet strict safety and security standards, ensuring fire safety doors perform correctly in the event of a fire.

   • How to Find a Contractor: Look up companies affiliated with this scheme by visiting the LPCB's "Red Book" online directory at Red Book Live.

2. BM Trada Q Mark: OP37 Fire Door Installation Scheme

   • What It Is: This certification program, run by BM Trada, specifically focuses on fire door installation.

   • Why It Matters: Installers certified under this scheme follow best practices and meet all regulatory requirements, ensuring the fire door is installed properly and provides necessary protection.

   • How to Find a Contractor: Find certified companies by visiting the BM Trada website at BM Trada Q-Mark.

3. Warrington Fire FIRAS Scheme

   • What It Is: Managed by Warrington Fire, this scheme certifies installers who meet high standards for fire door installation.

   • Why It Matters: FIRAS certification indicates the installer is qualified and knowledgeable about current fire safety regulations and techniques, ensuring fire doors are installed correctly and function effectively during a fire.

   • How to Find a Contractor: Locate certified installers by visiting the FIRAS scheme website at Warrington Fire FIRAS.

Why It’s Important to Use Certified Installers

• Safety: Certified installers ensure that fire doors are installed to high standards, crucial for effective fire protection.

• Compliance: These certifications ensure installations meet legal and regulatory requirements, such as those outlined in the Building Regulations 2000 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

• Quality: Certification programs involve continuous training and assessments, ensuring installers are up-to-date with the latest standards and best practices.

• Reliability: Proper installation by certified professionals reduces the risk of failure, ensuring the fire door functions as intended in an emergency.

• Council Requirement: The council requires that one of these three certified schemes is utilized to ensure installations meet necessary standards.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your fire doors have been installed by certified experts gives you confidence in their performance and compliance, reducing legal and insurance risks.

Using these certified schemes helps ensure that your fire safety doors are properly installed and maintained, providing essential protection for you and your property in case of a fire.

Step 2 - Fill Out the Westminster Fire Door Application Form

Complete the application form available at Westminster Fire Door Application Form.

Note: An asbestos check on the door is required before a new door installation. At the time of writing, the cost is £150, and this fee is not listed on the application. As a Leaseholder in Westminster Council, please reach out to Customer Services on 0800 358 3783 or via email at housing.enquiries@westminster.gov.uk for further advice and whether that fee will still apply to you.

Step 3 - Email the Form

Submit a copy of the completed form to housing.enquiries@westminster.gov.uk. Customer Services will require a payment to cover the application fee, which can be paid online. For assistance, call 0800 358 3783.

What Happens Next

After your initial application and asbestos survey fee have been paid, you will be issued a 'Conditional Approval Form' valid for 28 days and a ‘ Surveyor’s updated technical conditions For approval of alterations’ form. This 'Conditional Approval Form' will list several conditions that the leaseholder must approve and return to the council. The form will also include instructions on how to obtain a Building Control certification from the District Surveyors. Please note that there will be an additional cost for this certification.

Additional Information

This information sheet from Westminster City Council provides guidance for leaseholders on fire safety doors. It covers legal duties, identifying compliant doors, and providing compliance evidence. The relevant laws include the Building Regulations 2000, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and the Housing Act 2004. Not all doors need to be fire safety doors, but those forming part of a fire compartment must be. Upgrading or replacing doors may be necessary if they do not meet current standards. The council offers reduced fees and support for compliance. Leaseholders must apply for permission for changes and ensure new doors meet FD30s standards. Compliance checks, including door inspections, are advised. Non-compliance may result in legal action. Certified contractors are recommended for installations. For more information or assistance, visit the council's website.

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